Volcanoes Quiz

During a field trip, Abigail learned about different geological formations. She was particularly fascinated by an opening in the ground where lava and gases erupt. What is this geological feature called?

• A large body of water

• A type of earthquake

• An opening where lava and gases erupt

• A type of mountain formed by erosion

Answer explanation

The geological feature where lava and gases erupt is called a volcano. This matches the description provided in the question, making 'an opening where lava and gases erupt' the correct choice.

Ethan was fascinated by volcanoes and learned that when magma erupts from a volcano, it changes form. What is magma called after it erupts from a volcano?

• Lava

• Ash

• Gas

• Tepra

Answer explanation

After magma erupts from a volcano, it is called lava. This is the molten rock that flows out during an eruption, distinguishing it from other volcanic materials like ash and gas.

Elijah and Benjamin were studying volcanoes in their geography class. Their teacher asked them, "Which type of volcano is formed from small pieces of solid lava?"

• Cinder Cone

• Lava Dome

• Composite Volcano

• Shield Volcano

Answer explanation

Cinder cone volcanoes are formed from small pieces of solid lava that are ejected during eruptions. These fragments accumulate around the vent, creating a steep, conical shape, distinguishing them from other types of volcanoes.

During a geography class, Priya asked her classmates, "What is the tallest composite volcano on Earth?"

• Mount St. Helens

• Mount Fuji

• Mount Rainier

• Ojos del Salado

Answer explanation

Ojos del Salado is the tallest composite volcano on Earth, standing at 6,893 meters (22,615 feet) in the Andes mountain range. The other options, while notable volcanoes, do not surpass its height.

During a school trip, David learned about a volcano that is known for its almost nonstop eruptions since 1983. Can you name this volcano?

• Kīlauea

• Mauna Loa

• Mount Hood

• Mount Shasta

Answer explanation

Kīlauea is the volcano known for its nearly continuous eruptions since 1983, making it the correct answer. Mauna Loa, Mount Hood, and Mount Shasta do not have this same eruption history.

During a science experiment, Anika observed that when heat was applied to a mixture of rocks and minerals, a liquid formed that began to rise to the surface of the mixture. What is the primary reason this liquid, resembling magma, rises to the Earth's surface?

• It is heavier than surrounding rock

• It is lighter than surrounding rock

• It cools down quickly

• It is pushed by tectonic plates

Answer explanation

The liquid, resembling magma, rises because it is lighter than the surrounding rock. This lower density allows it to ascend through the mixture, similar to how less dense substances float in denser liquids.

During a science project, James learned about volcanic eruptions. He discovered that the smallest particles ejected during a volcanic eruption are called what?

• Magma

• Cinders

• Ash

• Lava

Answer explanation

The smallest particles ejected during a volcanic eruption are called ash. Unlike magma and lava, which are molten rock, ash consists of tiny fragments that can be carried over long distances by the wind.

During a school trip, Zoe, Sophia, and Aiden were discussing which region has the most active volcanoes in the United States.

• Alaska

• Midcontinent

• Southeast

• Northeast

Answer explanation

Alaska has the most active volcanoes in the United States, primarily due to the presence of the Aleutian Islands, which are part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, a region known for its volcanic activity.

Avery is studying different types of volcanoes for her geography project. She learns that one type of volcano is characterized by broad, gently sloping sides. What type of volcano is she describing?

• Lava Dome

• Shield Volcano

• Composite Volcano

• Cinder Cone

Answer explanation

A shield volcano is characterized by broad, gently sloping sides, formed by the eruption of low-viscosity lava that can flow over great distances. This distinguishes it from other types like cinder cones and composite volcanoes.

Ava and William are studying volcanoes in their geography class. They come across a term called 'lava dome'. What is a lava dome?

• A type of explosive volcano

• A thick lava flow that accumulates around a vent

• A crater formed by a volcanic eruption

• A type of ash cloud

Answer explanation

A lava dome is formed by thick lava that flows slowly and accumulates around a volcanic vent, creating a dome-shaped structure. This distinguishes it from explosive volcanoes and other volcanic features.